- Lead aprons questioned.
- Modern X-ray precision.
- Minimal exposure, patient comfort.
Dentists’ protective garments may be causing more harm than good, according to leading authorities.
The substantial lead apron draped over patients undergoing X-rays at the dentist aims to minimize radiation exposure to other body regions.
Due to the precision of modern X-ray equipment, Tufts University experts say they are no longer needed.
In actuality, the aprons may be detrimental because they obstruct the ability to obtain a clear shot of the jaw, necessitating a second attempt and thereby doubling the total dosage.
Professor of dental radiology at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM) in Boston, Massachusetts, Dr. Aruna Ramesh, stated, “Appropriate evidence from the scientific literature indicates that the apron and thyroid collar offer no additional benefit.”
New Guidance and Minimal Exposure
In August, the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology (AAOMR), an organization that provides dentists with evidence-based recommendations, issued new guidance stating that routine use of lead aprons and thyroid shielding is unnecessary for dental X-rays.
Dr. Ramesh said “internal scatter.” using dental X-rays exposes non-cranial areas to very little radiation. A small quantity of radiation enters the body through the head and neck and bounces about.
He stated, “An apron cannot prevent the internal scatter that exposes the organs beneath the jaw.”
Nonetheless, you will likely be required to wear one for future dental X-rays.
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Protective gear is mandated by regulations in the majority of states during the procedure. Dental teams will likely use coveralls and shields until state restrictions are changed.
Assistant professor of radiology at Tufts University School of Medicine Anthony Blatnica stated, “You are only dealing with internal scatter if it is not in the primary beam.” Consequently, external shielding is illogical.
“It becomes problematic if any portion of the covering falls into the X-ray field and obscures anatomy,” he explained.
Some patients like the lead apron’s mental and physical comfort, like a weighted blanket.
Advancements in Radiograph Technologies
Associate professor and director of oral and maxillofacial radiology at TUSDM, Dr. Hugo Campos, remarked, “The lead apron is extremely significant in terms of our patients’ psychology.” They perceive you as their protector.
However, he added that modern radiograph technologies and techniques provide adequate safeguards, such as X-rays that are directed specifically.
“The same dose is received with and without the shield, which is extremely low,” stated Dr. Campos.
